Bacteria Breaking Down Plastic: A Promising Solution

Recently, research has shed light on the remarkable capabilities of some bacteria to break down plastic. These bacteria can disintegrate plastic into small particles and eventually, with the right program in place, offer fresh hope in combating plastic waste.

The research originated from Leiden University where scientists compiled Streptomyces bacteria to be used in the efforts toward the discovery of novel antibiotics. Jo-Anne Verschoor, a PhD candidate, found another compelling use for these microorganisms.

Initially, the bacteria analyzed were not collected with plastic degradation in mind, however, based on her prior research, Verschoor, suspected that the bacteria could digest plastic. Indeed, under the right conditions the bacteria showed their ability to breakdown plastics.

In her work, Verschoor found that 20% of the bacterial strains researched could degrade specific forms of plastic, so long as the bacteria were hungry. This discovery is both exciting and hopeful.

The goal therefore is to translate the lab tests to the real world. To accomplish this, interdisciplinary collaborations are key. Engineers, environmental scientists, and policymakers must work together to help create effective systems for the introduction of this study into waste management facilities.

As time goes on, we are excited to see the strides being made in the fight against plastic waste and pollution - Verschoor’s research is now just the beginning!